Knowledge and Attitude of Secondary School Students Towards HIV and AIDS in Katsina State

This study assesses the knowledge and attitudes of secondary school students towards HIV and AIDS in Katsina State, North West Nigeria. Despite decades of public health campaigns, misconceptions and stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS persist among Nigerian adolescents, particularly in northern states where religious and cultural norms limit open discussion of sexuality. The study employs a descriptive survey design, targeting SS1 to SS3 students in twelve public secondary schools in Katsina and Daura local government areas. Data were collected from 320 respondents using a structured, validated questionnaire. Objectives include assessing students' knowledge of HIV transmission routes, prevention strategies, and treatment options, and examining their attitudes toward persons living with HIV. Recent literature from North West Nigeria documents a paradox of HIV awareness without accurate knowledge, resulting in persistent stigmatising attitudes. Data were analysed using mean scores, percentages, and Pearson correlation. The Information-Motivation-Behavioural Skills Model underpins the study, linking HIV knowledge and motivation to protective behaviour. Findings are expected to reveal significant knowledge gaps and negative attitudinal patterns, particularly among male students. Recommendations address the Katsina State Ministry of Education, Home Economics curriculum developers, and school health educators to integrate comprehensive HIV and AIDS education into secondary school programmes. Keywords: HIV and AIDS, knowledge, attitudes, secondary school students, Katsina State.